In German I the foundation is laid to understand basic German grammar. Within the vocabulary range of a first-year German course, the students practice the four areas of language learning: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In order to make the language more meaningful, students sing songs and play word games in German, write and present skits, and produce creative projects using the target language. Students learn how to express themselves properly in everyday situations, to include talking about themselves and their family and friends, preferences and interests, going shopping for food and clothes – all of which come within the vocabulary range of first year students.

This course continues the work of the elementary level aimed at the mastery of the structure of German. Units will include more extensive vocabulary and grammatical structures based on those mastered in German I. Communicative skills in the language are practiced and life in German speaking countries is presented through realistic contexts, songs, short stories, pictures and discussion/comparing/contrasting. All four areas of language learning receive equal emphasis: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

This is an intermediate course in which students begin to move from concrete vocabulary to speaking and writing in German. Students will use this vocabulary in dialogues, casual and guided conversations, and directed compositions that are both structured and creative. Students will work with authentic texts and authentic videos to begin using their language skills beyond the classroom. Students will continue to build on the grammatical foundations begun in the first two years, including an emphasis on the major verb tenses. An emphasis will be placed on writing skills in this course.

At this level of German, the students are capable of reading German newspapers and magazine articles, authentic text materials, non-technical literature such as poetry, dramas, short stories and novellas written by German speakers for German speakers. Students practice oral discussions of current events and current topics of interest as well as using German in casual conversations. Students will continue to work with authentic videos to refine their understanding of spoken German, including dialects of the German language. There are grammar reviews and the introduction of more advanced grammar concepts to aid students in their written and spoken use of the language. An emphasis on geographical, historical, and literary understandings of the people who speak the language will also occur in this course.

In AP German students will continue the study of literature, history, and culture through the reading of various pieces of literature. Grammar concepts from the first four years will be reviewed, including more complex grammar structures, and used as a tool for good communication. Listening skills will be emphasized through the use of authentic videos and recorded materials. Reading and writing skills will continue to be included and built upon, including structured writing focused on current events and creative writing. Students will be expected to speak and write about themes that are important to young adults today and to show a real knowledge of German-speaking people and their lands and cultures. Extensive listening and speaking practice in preparation for the optional Advanced Placement test can be expected.